a panic attack is a sudden feeling of extreme anxiety. symptoms include feelings of dying or losing control of oneself, rapid breathing (hyperventilation), and a racing heart.
a person having a panic attack may feel dizzy, sweaty, or shaky. other symptoms include trouble breathing, chest pain or tightness, and an irregular heartbeat.
a panic attack can be triggered by a stressful event, or it can occur unexpectedly. an attack starts suddenly and usually lasts from 5 to 20 minutes but may last even longer, up to a few hours. you have the most anxiety about 10 minutes after the attack starts. panic attacks can be successfully treated with counselling and medicine.